LOCATIONBetween Swanston and Russel streets on Lonsdale Street.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA“Traditional homemade cooking just like your mum used to make,” boasts Dion’s Restaurant and Taverna – of course no one would ever leave home if their mum’s cooking was this good! A versatile restaurant, bar and functions venue, Dion’s is located only a short walk from major Melbourne attractions like Federation Square and the Princess Theatre. Owners Ignatios and Mary Karasavvidis, along with head chef Anestas H’Savidis, have compiled a menu of traditional Greek favourites that are made with love and passion from the homeland. Although – also in true Greek tradition – urgency is not a priority at Dion’s. Once the delightful pan-fried sagonaki cheese whets your appetite, the chargrilled
biftekia rissoles marinated in herbs and spices are well worth the wait. Finish with one of the in-house
galaktobouriko (custard and honey syrup pastry) and your mind will be half way to Athens. In a remarkably un-Greek, yet welcomed, twist vegetarians are also well-catered for.
Dion’s convenient city location and split-level space also make it a perfect option for lunch and dinner banquets or corporate functions. The weekend lunch banquet, at $28, includes a selection of dips and appetisers, tender skewers, and seafood for the main. If it’s just baklava or souvlaki you’re after, check out Ignatios’ recently opened Medallian eatery next door, to find a quick hit of Greek goodness.
Frank Trimboli